Unit 2 - Trent's Say on the Matter of Deductive and Inductive Learning

 This is my say on the topic of Deductive vs Inductive Learning. 

Deductive learning is based on learning the rules first and then putting it into practice. Inductive allows the learner to figure out the grammar rule for themselves by analyzing examples.

It appears that many teachers prefer the deductive method, and mostly because that is how we were taught. It also appears that most teachers agree that a mixed approach to teaching would be the most useful.

On a personal note, my wife learned English as a native language through the inductive approach and she did not appreciate it. She didn't understand grammar until she took Latin in university. There might be something to this deductive approach.

Unit 3 - Corrective Feedback from a Student's Perspective

 Having not done any teaching in a situation in which I have needed to produce feedback, I will focus instead on my experiences as a student.

As a student, I have experienced frustration when every little error is pointed out. I do realize the importance of accuracy and correctness, however, it is very demoralizing to have every error highlighted.

Thankfully, with the development of word processing technology and spell checking technology, the spelling mistakes are few and far between. One must double check these documents still because spell checking technology is not always accurate, especially if you want to use rarer words in your writing.

As for grammar, this is still more difficult to assess. Grammar rules, whether they are learned directly or indirectly, are essential in the English language. Having grammar errors pointed out is useful in developing correct language usage. However, the teacher does not always need to point out every error. Sometimes it is better to allow the student to focus on correcting some of the errors first and then as they progress they can focus on other errors.

I believe correcting grammar errors in writing allow a student to visually see errors that are probably present in their speaking as well.

Writing Activities

 3 Things Activity

https://www.eslactivity.org/3-things-esl-writing-activity/

Describe 3 things using simple phrases - Beginner

Write a paragraph about three things - Intermediate

Journaling for English Learners

https://www.eslactivity.org/journaling-english-learners/

Students keep a journal of their learning - Intermediate-Advanced

Postcard ESL Writing Exercise

https://www.eslactivity.org/postcards-esl-writing-activity/

Have students write postcards - Beginner

More resources

https://www.eslactivity.org/esl-writing/